Morse Code Interpreter Strip

While the Morse Code requirement has been dropped from both the FCC amateur radio operator license exam and the Boy Scouts Radio Merit Badge requirements, it shows continued growth in operation. CW or Morse Code contests continue to grow in participation and many are eagerly studying Morse Code to acquire it for the first time or to build their receiving and transmitting speed and accuracy.

In 2012, the Boy Scouts of America added a Morse Code Interpreter Strip to their allowable uniform wear. You can read all about the requirements at Morse Code Interpreter Strip. Below is an image of the patch, with the dots and dashes spelling out the word M-O-R-S-E.

Many questions have surfaced over how to qualify for the interpreter strip, who determines the qualification, etc. Administration of all interpreter strips are done at the unit level by the unit leader or someone they designate who has the skills and knowledge to verify current proficiency in the language, in this case Morse Code. One of the better overviews of the interpreter strip qualification process is at the Scout Insignia website.